Photo of Ailis Weir, Counsellor in Nottingham, England
Ailis Weir
Counsellor, MSc, BACP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG1  (Online Only)
I am also non-monogamous and part of kink communities, so I can talk to you about these parts of life in an open way.
I am a person-centred counsellor who primarily works with members of the LGBTQ+ community. While mental health issues can be a huge barrier for anyone, for LGBTQ+ people these issues can be magnified. Often LGBTQ+ folks struggle to feel understood, to feel heard, and can suffer social isolation as a result. Coming out, again and again, to ourselves, our friends, our partners all while finding one’s true sense of self, can be a lifelong mission. My outlook on counselling is based on compassion and honesty, and I work to foster an environment where collaboration is encouraged. Find out more at my website www.beyondlineartherapy.com.
I am also non-monogamous and part of kink communities, so I can talk to you about these parts of life in an open way.
I am a person-centred counsellor who primarily works with members of the LGBTQ+ community. While mental health issues can be a huge barrier for anyone, for LGBTQ+ people these issues can be magnified. Often LGBTQ+ folks struggle to feel understood, to feel heard, and can suffer social isolation as a result. Coming out, again and again, to ourselves, our friends, our partners all while finding one’s true sense of self, can be a lifelong mission. My outlook on counselling is based on compassion and honesty, and I work to foster an environment where collaboration is encouraged. Find out more at my website www.beyondlineartherapy.com.
0113 519 4367 View 0113 519 4367
Photo of Nichola Marchant, Psychologist in Nottingham, England
Nichola Marchant
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG9  (Online Only)
I am sex positive and kink friendly.
I work predominantly with adults who have experienced trauma or negative life experiences which have impacted on their sexual functioning, mental health, emotional well-being and relationships. I offer both short and long term therapy for clients wishing to gain a better understanding of their lives and experiences and provide strategies and interventions to enable my clients to live the lives they want to live. I work with people who have sexual problems and who wish to achieve a happy and healthy sexual identity.
I am sex positive and kink friendly.
I work predominantly with adults who have experienced trauma or negative life experiences which have impacted on their sexual functioning, mental health, emotional well-being and relationships. I offer both short and long term therapy for clients wishing to gain a better understanding of their lives and experiences and provide strategies and interventions to enable my clients to live the lives they want to live. I work with people who have sexual problems and who wish to achieve a happy and healthy sexual identity.
07771 391614 View 07771 391614
Photo of Paul J. Gilbert, Psychotherapist in Nottingham, England
Paul J. Gilbert
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG5
I am an experienced and highly qualified Psychotherapist and Counsellor. I offer Single-Session, Short-Term and Long-Term Therapy. I work with a wide range of problems such as Depression, Anxiety, Low Self-Esteem, Sadness, Loss, Relationship Issues, BPD, OCD, Anger, Feeling Lost, Domestic Violence, Trauma, Sexual Violence & Abuse etc. People can seek therapy when they are feeling vulnerable and experiencing a challenging time in their lives, often due to past experiences or events that are happening in the present time. I will help you to explore and understand your experience and find solutions together.
I am an experienced and highly qualified Psychotherapist and Counsellor. I offer Single-Session, Short-Term and Long-Term Therapy. I work with a wide range of problems such as Depression, Anxiety, Low Self-Esteem, Sadness, Loss, Relationship Issues, BPD, OCD, Anger, Feeling Lost, Domestic Violence, Trauma, Sexual Violence & Abuse etc. People can seek therapy when they are feeling vulnerable and experiencing a challenging time in their lives, often due to past experiences or events that are happening in the present time. I will help you to explore and understand your experience and find solutions together.
0115 671 3873 View 0115 671 3873
Photo of Natalie Brunning, Counsellor in Nottingham, England
Natalie Brunning
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG11  (Online Only)
Hi my name is Natalie. I am an experienced BACP accredited counsellor working in Nottingham. I offer a friendly, safe and confidential space to enable you to work through any difficulties you may be experiencing. I work within the Humanistic person centered approach and I believe that given the right conditions, through therapy, positive changes can be made. I offer counselling for all ages, individuals, couples, EAP, and group work. I work with both long and short term clients. I have extensive experience working with depression, complex mental health and PTSD
Hi my name is Natalie. I am an experienced BACP accredited counsellor working in Nottingham. I offer a friendly, safe and confidential space to enable you to work through any difficulties you may be experiencing. I work within the Humanistic person centered approach and I believe that given the right conditions, through therapy, positive changes can be made. I offer counselling for all ages, individuals, couples, EAP, and group work. I work with both long and short term clients. I have extensive experience working with depression, complex mental health and PTSD
0115 647 0413 View 0115 647 0413
Photo of Andrea Mendes Freira, Counsellor in Nottingham, England
Andrea Mendes Freira
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nottingham NG1  (Online Only)
Regardless of our background we all go through difficult moments in our lives, leaving us overwhelmed and often struggling with feelings that may be hard to understand. It could be because life events are hard to overcome, or you feel exploited and disempowered and would like that to change. Maybe you are sexually unfulfilled or dealing with sexual problems. It could be that you want to build the confidence to come out of the closet or just to find your sexual self and enjoy the intimacy you desire in your romantic relationships. Whatever the reason is that brings you to this point - it is ok to look for someone to talk to.
Regardless of our background we all go through difficult moments in our lives, leaving us overwhelmed and often struggling with feelings that may be hard to understand. It could be because life events are hard to overcome, or you feel exploited and disempowered and would like that to change. Maybe you are sexually unfulfilled or dealing with sexual problems. It could be that you want to build the confidence to come out of the closet or just to find your sexual self and enjoy the intimacy you desire in your romantic relationships. Whatever the reason is that brings you to this point - it is ok to look for someone to talk to.
0115 824 4053 View 0115 824 4053
Photo of Andrew Howes, Psychotherapist in Nottingham, England
Andrew Howes
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG5
I have over 15 years experience working with organisations such as Mind and Priory amongst others and have extensive experience of dealing with anxiety, depression, low self esteem, trauma, phobias, PTSD in both long or short term therapy. Whatever your reason for finding yourself here, know that you’ve already taken a big step, and should you wish, I can help you take many more.
I have over 15 years experience working with organisations such as Mind and Priory amongst others and have extensive experience of dealing with anxiety, depression, low self esteem, trauma, phobias, PTSD in both long or short term therapy. Whatever your reason for finding yourself here, know that you’ve already taken a big step, and should you wish, I can help you take many more.
028 9694 3342 View 028 9694 3342
Photo of Dr Lianne Beadsmoore, Psychologist in Nottingham, England
Dr Lianne Beadsmoore
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG1  (Online Only)
My name is Lianne and I am a Chartered and Registered Psychologist and a Qualified EMDR Therapist. I have a broad range of experience in helping individuals improve their mental health and well-being. I am committed to providing a supportive and empathetic environment where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to make positive changes in your life. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or any other mental health concern, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts and emotions.
My name is Lianne and I am a Chartered and Registered Psychologist and a Qualified EMDR Therapist. I have a broad range of experience in helping individuals improve their mental health and well-being. I am committed to providing a supportive and empathetic environment where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to make positive changes in your life. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or any other mental health concern, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts and emotions.
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Photo of Dr Keith Abbott, Counsellor in Nottingham, England
Dr Keith Abbott
Counsellor, PhD, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG1
I’m passionate about helping you make more of your life, whether you want to work on personal, psychological, relationship, mental health or spiritual issues or to find more meaning, fulfilment, purpose and happiness in life. I have a Masters degree (with Distinction) in Person-Centred Counselling & Psychotherapy Practice. I offer short and long term counselling and psychotherapy, and counselling supervision. I help men, women and couples of many professions, occupations and nationalities, from 18 upwards in UK and (online) overseas. I provide individual sessions, couples sessions and am a qualified counselling supervisor.
I’m passionate about helping you make more of your life, whether you want to work on personal, psychological, relationship, mental health or spiritual issues or to find more meaning, fulfilment, purpose and happiness in life. I have a Masters degree (with Distinction) in Person-Centred Counselling & Psychotherapy Practice. I offer short and long term counselling and psychotherapy, and counselling supervision. I help men, women and couples of many professions, occupations and nationalities, from 18 upwards in UK and (online) overseas. I provide individual sessions, couples sessions and am a qualified counselling supervisor.
01509 323243 View 01509 323243
Photo of Steven Shears, Psychotherapist in Nottingham, England
Steven Shears
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG1
I take the fact that you are looking at the possibility of entering therapy as a good sign. You may have struggled with your particular issue for years and found some temporary relief from it but now you are hoping that therapy could help you and have an open mind to possibilities to making some permanent changes and acquiring skills to deal with your difficulties going forwards and improving your relationships. If this sounds like your view of change then I have a wide range of experience with both individuals and couples to accompany you on your journey and have a encouraging and supportive approach.
I take the fact that you are looking at the possibility of entering therapy as a good sign. You may have struggled with your particular issue for years and found some temporary relief from it but now you are hoping that therapy could help you and have an open mind to possibilities to making some permanent changes and acquiring skills to deal with your difficulties going forwards and improving your relationships. If this sounds like your view of change then I have a wide range of experience with both individuals and couples to accompany you on your journey and have a encouraging and supportive approach.
01623 703997 View 01623 703997

Online Therapists

Photo of Trusting Heart Counselling and Sex Therapy , Counsellor in Nottingham, England
Trusting Heart Counselling and Sex Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Chester CH1
I'm a Kink Positive Qualified Counsellor and a Sex and Relationship Therapist in Training, who offers a professional & engaging relationship that you can feel safe within.
Sex therapy for Individual Adults and Couples that might be struggling with sexual problems & intimacy issues. Issues I can help you with are Painful Sex, Erection & Ejaculation Issues, Pain & Penetration Issues, Low Sexual Desire, Sexual Dysfunctioning Issues, Orgasm Issues, Sex & Porn Addictions, Sexual Compulsivity, Sexual Jealously and issues around any Kink, Fetish & BDSM Practices. I offer online sessions on Tuesdays and Wednesdays during the day, and in person and online on Friday daytimes at my Heswall Clinic. Please reach out today! Get in touch by dropping me an email and let's have a conversation!
I'm a Kink Positive Qualified Counsellor and a Sex and Relationship Therapist in Training, who offers a professional & engaging relationship that you can feel safe within.
Sex therapy for Individual Adults and Couples that might be struggling with sexual problems & intimacy issues. Issues I can help you with are Painful Sex, Erection & Ejaculation Issues, Pain & Penetration Issues, Low Sexual Desire, Sexual Dysfunctioning Issues, Orgasm Issues, Sex & Porn Addictions, Sexual Compulsivity, Sexual Jealously and issues around any Kink, Fetish & BDSM Practices. I offer online sessions on Tuesdays and Wednesdays during the day, and in person and online on Friday daytimes at my Heswall Clinic. Please reach out today! Get in touch by dropping me an email and let's have a conversation!
07376 473162 View 07376 473162
Photo of Jacqueline Jones Sex Therapy, Psychotherapist in Nottingham, England
Jacqueline Jones Sex Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, COSRT General
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cambridge CB2
Issues with relationships, porn, kink or fetish? Does sex feel addictive, painful or boring? Maybe sex isn't as satisfying as it was or as good as it could be. I offer practical, highly specialist help for relationships & individuals. Due to demand, I have opened a Saturday morning clinic offering sessions. As a Sex Addiction PhD Scholar, I also offer Compulsive Sexual Behaviour Therapy to clients who think their sex life is problematic. I'm able to offer a tailored, unique programme of support using my knowledge and research. I help clients feel less alone, whilst discovering what is going on for them and what to do about it.
Issues with relationships, porn, kink or fetish? Does sex feel addictive, painful or boring? Maybe sex isn't as satisfying as it was or as good as it could be. I offer practical, highly specialist help for relationships & individuals. Due to demand, I have opened a Saturday morning clinic offering sessions. As a Sex Addiction PhD Scholar, I also offer Compulsive Sexual Behaviour Therapy to clients who think their sex life is problematic. I'm able to offer a tailored, unique programme of support using my knowledge and research. I help clients feel less alone, whilst discovering what is going on for them and what to do about it.
020 3909 9848 View 020 3909 9848
Photo of Tell Us A Tail , Psychotherapist in Nottingham, England
Tell Us A Tail
Psychotherapist, MSc, COSRT General
Verified Verified
Barnsley S75
I’m sex positive, non judgmental and an advocate for people who have been through sexual, emotional and physical abuse.
I’m a sex, relationship and trauma therapist . I work in a solution focused way to build self esteem, confidence and self care. I’m attentive to how you learn and use lots of tools and worksheets to help.
I’m sex positive, non judgmental and an advocate for people who have been through sexual, emotional and physical abuse.
I’m a sex, relationship and trauma therapist . I work in a solution focused way to build self esteem, confidence and self care. I’m attentive to how you learn and use lots of tools and worksheets to help.
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Photo of Linda Harris, Psychotherapist in Nottingham, England
Linda Harris
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Podington NN29
This is popular for those who are unable to access Kink Aware therapists near them, overseas clients or those who travel frequently, clients who require a higher level of privacy due to being in the public eye, and people who are housebound due to disability.
I have been working within the field of mental health for almost 30 years, predominantly within the NHS, and have a wealth of training and experience. I provide both long and short term counselling and psychotherapy for individuals and couples, and work to an exceptional standard of confidentiality. I work with a variety of problems and issues such as anxiety, depression, childhood trauma and relationship difficulties. However, if you'd like to discuss what is troubling you, you are very welcome to call or e-mail me before committing to making an appointment.
This is popular for those who are unable to access Kink Aware therapists near them, overseas clients or those who travel frequently, clients who require a higher level of privacy due to being in the public eye, and people who are housebound due to disability.
I have been working within the field of mental health for almost 30 years, predominantly within the NHS, and have a wealth of training and experience. I provide both long and short term counselling and psychotherapy for individuals and couples, and work to an exceptional standard of confidentiality. I work with a variety of problems and issues such as anxiety, depression, childhood trauma and relationship difficulties. However, if you'd like to discuss what is troubling you, you are very welcome to call or e-mail me before committing to making an appointment.
01933 426197 View 01933 426197
Photo of Caroline Feldon Therapy, Counsellor in Nottingham, England
Caroline Feldon Therapy
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Swadlincote DE12
LGBTQIA+, CNM/Polyam, SW and Kink friendly.
If you need relationship counselling, sex therapy, or both, you've come to the right place. An experienced relationship and psychosexual therapist, I work in person and via webcam/phone with couples, partners and individuals to help clients improve communication, manage conflict, deal with problems in their sex lives, cope with separation/divorce, and manage fallout from infidelity or affairs. All of these can cause anxiety and depression. I work with adults of all ages, up to and beyond retirement, offering a safe space where you can talk confidentially about any relationships, whether partners, friends, work colleagues or family.
LGBTQIA+, CNM/Polyam, SW and Kink friendly.
If you need relationship counselling, sex therapy, or both, you've come to the right place. An experienced relationship and psychosexual therapist, I work in person and via webcam/phone with couples, partners and individuals to help clients improve communication, manage conflict, deal with problems in their sex lives, cope with separation/divorce, and manage fallout from infidelity or affairs. All of these can cause anxiety and depression. I work with adults of all ages, up to and beyond retirement, offering a safe space where you can talk confidentially about any relationships, whether partners, friends, work colleagues or family.
07476 553029 View 07476 553029
Photo of Austen Miall, Psychotherapist in Nottingham, England
Austen Miall
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Manchester M4
My name is Austen and I provide Psychotherapy to individuals & couples in Manchester and Online. I qualified as a therapist in 2011 and my particular skill is helping clients to process sensitive or embarrassing issues. I have undertaken training in Trauma, Emotional Regulation and Sexuality related problems. My specialist areas are; Anxiety, Low Self-Esteem, Sexual Abuse, Sex/Porn Addiction, Erectile Dysfunction and Kink-Related Shame. Many of my clients have previous experience of therapy and are seeking a therapist with specific skills and a therapeutic approach that is focused. I'm Gay and my clients are heterosexual and LGBT+.
My name is Austen and I provide Psychotherapy to individuals & couples in Manchester and Online. I qualified as a therapist in 2011 and my particular skill is helping clients to process sensitive or embarrassing issues. I have undertaken training in Trauma, Emotional Regulation and Sexuality related problems. My specialist areas are; Anxiety, Low Self-Esteem, Sexual Abuse, Sex/Porn Addiction, Erectile Dysfunction and Kink-Related Shame. Many of my clients have previous experience of therapy and are seeking a therapist with specific skills and a therapeutic approach that is focused. I'm Gay and my clients are heterosexual and LGBT+.
01484 627039 View 01484 627039
Photo of Alex Sanderson-Shortt, Counsellor in Nottingham, England
Alex Sanderson-Shortt
Counsellor, MA, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Northwich CW9
Waitlist for new clients
I work positivley with members of the kink community.
I am a highly experienced relationship counsellor and supervisor who works with couples, individuals and polyamorous/open relationships across a range of issues. I specialise in working with LGBT clients and those in open and poly relationships. I work effectively and non-judgementally with affairs and betrayal, communication issues, family and work pressures, anxiety and depression etc. I work in a sex positive way with sexual issues as part of relationship therapy and work with kink clients and sex workers.
I work positivley with members of the kink community.
I am a highly experienced relationship counsellor and supervisor who works with couples, individuals and polyamorous/open relationships across a range of issues. I specialise in working with LGBT clients and those in open and poly relationships. I work effectively and non-judgementally with affairs and betrayal, communication issues, family and work pressures, anxiety and depression etc. I work in a sex positive way with sexual issues as part of relationship therapy and work with kink clients and sex workers.
01606 532680 View 01606 532680
Photo of Miranda Christophers, Psychotherapist in Nottingham, England
Miranda Christophers
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Beaconsfield HP9
I work with a broad range of issues including: Relationship difficulties, Gender and Sexual Relationship Diversity (includes LGBTQIA+), Infidelity, Communication Problems, Impact of menopause, Intimacy Issues, Low desire, Vulval/vaginal pain, Erectile Dysfunction/Premature Ejaculation, Confidence issues + low self-esteem, Sexual Compulsivity, Kink, Trauma.
I am the Clinical Director of The Therapy Yard www.thetherapyyard.co.uk. We are a team consisting of Relationship and Psychosexual Therapists, Psychotherapists, Counsellors and Coaches. We are a modern and forward-thinking practice providing a range of talking therapies and specialisms online and in-person. Diversity, inclusivity, and the therapeutic relationship are at the heart of our values so we warmly welcome all, and are committed to matching you with the right therapist for you. I am also an Accredited Relationship and Psychosexual (Sex) Therapist within the practice.
I work with a broad range of issues including: Relationship difficulties, Gender and Sexual Relationship Diversity (includes LGBTQIA+), Infidelity, Communication Problems, Impact of menopause, Intimacy Issues, Low desire, Vulval/vaginal pain, Erectile Dysfunction/Premature Ejaculation, Confidence issues + low self-esteem, Sexual Compulsivity, Kink, Trauma.
I am the Clinical Director of The Therapy Yard www.thetherapyyard.co.uk. We are a team consisting of Relationship and Psychosexual Therapists, Psychotherapists, Counsellors and Coaches. We are a modern and forward-thinking practice providing a range of talking therapies and specialisms online and in-person. Diversity, inclusivity, and the therapeutic relationship are at the heart of our values so we warmly welcome all, and are committed to matching you with the right therapist for you. I am also an Accredited Relationship and Psychosexual (Sex) Therapist within the practice.
01494 416280 View 01494 416280
Photo of Leah Spasova, Psychologist in Nottingham, England
Leah Spasova
Psychologist, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Oxford OX3  (Online Only)
Tired of finding yourself frustrated, lonely, unfulfilled and lost in your intimate life and relationships? Yes, spending life stuck and unhappy, feeling like a lab rat – trying to figure out a maze without a map can be soul destroying. I've been talking, teaching and helping people with their relationships and sexuality since 2007, and no story can faze me. You can feel safe - I'll get you. I will understand and not judge one bit. This is your journey. Are you struggling with intimacy and sexuality? Are you curious about kinky sex or swinging? Or maybe you want to open your relationship? Or to begin with - actually find a partner?
Tired of finding yourself frustrated, lonely, unfulfilled and lost in your intimate life and relationships? Yes, spending life stuck and unhappy, feeling like a lab rat – trying to figure out a maze without a map can be soul destroying. I've been talking, teaching and helping people with their relationships and sexuality since 2007, and no story can faze me. You can feel safe - I'll get you. I will understand and not judge one bit. This is your journey. Are you struggling with intimacy and sexuality? Are you curious about kinky sex or swinging? Or maybe you want to open your relationship? Or to begin with - actually find a partner?
01865 638815 View 01865 638815
Photo of Dawn White - Relationship Living, Counsellor in Nottingham, England
Dawn White - Relationship Living
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Dronfield S18
As a sex and relationship therapist I aim to provide an open space where people can discuss, and explore their intimate concerns and experiences in a non judgemental way. I work with both couples, individuals and multiple partnered people, whilst honouring all sexual orientations and practices. People that are experiencing sexual, emotional or deeper relationship issues, contact me to explore and understand what they can change and control, and also what patterns are repeating in their relationships. I am a sex positive therapist and have over 20 years extensive experience as a therapist.
As a sex and relationship therapist I aim to provide an open space where people can discuss, and explore their intimate concerns and experiences in a non judgemental way. I work with both couples, individuals and multiple partnered people, whilst honouring all sexual orientations and practices. People that are experiencing sexual, emotional or deeper relationship issues, contact me to explore and understand what they can change and control, and also what patterns are repeating in their relationships. I am a sex positive therapist and have over 20 years extensive experience as a therapist.
0114 697 2894 View 0114 697 2894
Photo of Gerry Ritchie, Counsellor in Nottingham, England
Gerry Ritchie
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Evesham WR11
Hi, I'm Gerry. If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, bereavement, anger, shame, guilt, stress, addiction or just feeling that life is too much to cope with then I’m here to help. I am an integrative counsellor with a broad range of counselling and psychotherapy qualifications and experience. I am also BDSM/Kink aware and have experience of working with clients from this community without assuming that their Kink is a pathology. I work in partnership with my clients to find the best way to deal with the problem. Above all, the focus is on you, the client, and what you need to help you feel better.
Hi, I'm Gerry. If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, bereavement, anger, shame, guilt, stress, addiction or just feeling that life is too much to cope with then I’m here to help. I am an integrative counsellor with a broad range of counselling and psychotherapy qualifications and experience. I am also BDSM/Kink aware and have experience of working with clients from this community without assuming that their Kink is a pathology. I work in partnership with my clients to find the best way to deal with the problem. Above all, the focus is on you, the client, and what you need to help you feel better.
01242 395274 View 01242 395274

See more therapy options for Nottingham

Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Counsellors

Why might an individual want to see a sex-positive, kink-allied therapist?

A sex-positive or kinky individual may want to see a sex-positive, kink-allied therapist because the client may feel safer and more supported discussing their experiences and challenges. A therapist who identifies as kink-friendly will have experience with clients having diverse sexual preferences and will likely be nonjudgmental and supportive about issues brought to the table. It is important to note that sex-positive, kink-allied individuals may find equal success with therapists who do not have such specialised knowledge and background. The most important factor in the success of therapy is for the client and practitioner to form a strong, trusting bond.

Do therapists have special training to gain expertise in sex-positive, kink-allied treatment?

Generally, no. There are limited training programs and unofficial accreditations that therapists can pursue, but a therapist’s expertise will ultimately come from their previous experience with similar clients, their engagement with organisations that promote sex positivity or kink-allied lifestyles, and the importance they place on safety and cultural sensitivity.

How can individuals recognise a good sex-positive, kink-allied therapist?

An experienced therapist is able to help clients explore their sexual identity and expression and relieve any discomfort or stigma attached to discussing such matters and the client’s overall challenges. A therapist who is sex-positive and kink-allied is able to create an environment that honors a client’s experience and sexual preferences. To recognise a good therapist, clients can simply ask directly about topics and issues important to them and gauge their comfort level and connection with a clinician based on the responses.

Can clients benefit from having a therapist with a focus on sex positivity and alternative sexual lifestyles?

Some individuals may feel most comfortable knowing that the clinician they’re working with has a commitment to creating an atmosphere of sex positivity and has experience with relationship diversity and alternative relationship structures. Working with a sex-positive, kink-allied therapist may help clients respect their own challenges and improve identity-affirming treatment.